RASCL Coffee Hours engage with our communities for the purpose of information sharing and networking. We typically feature a presentation on best practices, emerging topics, new projects or funding opportunities, and more.
Past presentations are available below. Virtual Coffee Hours are recorded and are available here.
Lisa Swanger, Director of Outreach & Education at the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays, will highlight the Bays to Backyards Community Engagement Program, a first-of-its-kind initiative in Delaware that helps residential communities steward shared spaces and address watershed challenges through practical, nature-based solutions. Developed in partnership with local and state organizations, the program brings together community engagement, technical support, and actionable resources to advance watershed resilience. Learn more: inlandbays.org/bays-to-backyards
Phil Cane, State Hazard Mitigation Officer at the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, will provide updates regarding FEMA mitigation funding and the development of the state’s new hazard mitigation plan, which assesses vulnerabilities to infrastructure and communities, and recommends preparedness and mitigation actions.
Participants will have the opportunity to tour Resilient Earth, Resilient Communities, a traveling exhibit hosted by the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays, will be on display August 29–October 24 at the Dr. Susan K. Ball Environmental Education Center at James Farm Ecological Preserve in Ocean View, DE. Developed by the U.S. National Science Foundation’s National Center for Atmospheric Research, this interactive exhibit explores how observations of our planet—from weather patterns to changing landscapes—help scientists and communities better understand the world around us, prepare for the future, and build stronger, more resilient communities. Learn more: edec.ucar.edu/public/traveling-exhibits
Site Details:
● Location: Dr. Susan K. Ball Environmental Education Center at James Farm Ecological Preserve (30048 Cedar Neck Road, Ocean View, DE 19970)
● About the Site: James Farm is a 150-acre preserve featuring forests, meadows, wetlands, salt marsh, tidal flats, beach, and Indian River Bay, with approximately 2 miles of unpaved walking trails.
● Accessibility & Terrain: The education center is approximately 500 feet from the main parking lot via a crushed-shell trail. The preserve is generally flat, but trails may include tree roots, mud, sand, and uneven surfaces. The building is a three-season facility without heating or air conditioning.
● Parking: Parking is available in the main lot. If the lot is full, overflow parking is available in the field across Cedar Neck Rd.
● Restrooms & Water: Two single-stall, ADA-compliant restrooms and potable water are available on site.
Light refreshments will be provided.
